With warmer weather approaching, we welcome the longer days of sunlight and fresh air. Playing outside is an important part of childhood development. Please follow these safety tips while playing outside this Spring to maximize safety.
Dealing with stinging and other insects
Warmer temperatures bring out all types of insects. Make sure you are using the appropriate insect repellant and wearing proper outdoor clothing. The insects responsible for most stings include yellow jackets, wasps, honeybees and mosquitos. Learn to recognize and avoid these insects. If you are stung, remove the stinger with a quick scrape of a fingernail or credit card edge. Stinging may cause redness, swelling, itching or discomfort. Wash the sting site with soap and water. Then apply cold compresses. You also may use antihistamines or calamine lotion to treat site reactions.
Seek immediate medical help if your child has tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, dizziness, nausea or a loss of consciousness. If your child has a previous known allergic reaction, make sure to carry an EpiPen with you at all times..
Watch for concussion symptoms
Springtime means new and fun sport activities for your children. It's important that you learn about concussion symptoms before they start sports this spring. Make sure that your kids are using appropriate sport gear for safety and to prevent injuries.
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head that alters the way your child's brain functions.
These are a few of the common symptoms of a concussion:
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Forgetfulness surrounding the traumatic event
- Dizziness or "seeing stars"
Some symptoms of concussions may be immediate and others may be delayed in onset by hours to days after injury. Seek immediate care when your child develops these symptoms, or his or her behavior changes after an injury.
Make bicycle safety routine
Bicycles are a fun way for everyone to exercise in warmer weather. Check that every rider has a bicycle helmet that properly. Wear bright colored clothing when bike riding and avoid nighttime biking. Remind your children that riding with the flow of traffic not only is recommended — it's the law. Also, they should stop at all stop signs and check for traffic before turning. Ensure that your bicycle is functioning properly before setting out to ride.
Don't forget the sunscreen
Spring's sun rays can be intense, especially if you have been indoors for most of the winter. Don't forget to wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when outside. Sunscreen should have a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 30 or higher. With the warmer weather, sun and outdoor activities also comes the risk for dehydration leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. So make sure you and your kids drink plenty of water.
Walking and Hiking
Hiking is a great way to get exercise, as well as explore the best sights within and around your community. Make sure to wear proper footwear and clothing. Finally, don't forget to pack water and a small first-aid kit, and stay on marked trails.
Mayoclinichealthsystem.org
